In the world’s largest democracy, India, voting is more than just a right. It is the very foundation of our government and public voice. With the 2025 Delhi Assembly elections recently concluded in February and the Bihar elections currently underway, there has never been a better time to educate young minds about the significance of elections.
At Sacred Heart School, Siliguri, we believe education must prepare children not only for academics but also for life as responsible citizens. Founded in 1997 and managed by the Kurseong Sacred Heart Educational Society, our co-educational day and residential school offers a learning experience that blends academic excellence with value-based education. Teaching democratic concepts like voting is part of our broader vision to nurture thoughtful, aware individuals.
The Importance of Voting in a Democracy
Voting is one of the most powerful tools citizens have to shape the direction of their country. By choosing their representatives, citizens influence:
Creation of laws
Allocation of resources
Development policies
Participating in elections is not just a right but a civic duty that ensures democracy thrives.
Yet, many in India remain unaware of the true power of their vote. Early education plays a key role in bridging this awareness gap. Teaching children the importance of voting helps build an informed and active citizenry.
Sacred Heart’s Approach to Civic Awareness
At Sacred Heart School, civic learning is part of both curriculum and co-curricular activities. Our 3-acre campus with state-of-the-art facilities offers the ideal environment for experiential learning. Here’s how we teach democratic values:
1. Making It Relatable
We simplify voting for young students by connecting it to choices they understand—like selecting a class game or a snack. This introduces them to decision-making and majority rule.
2. Mock Elections and Activities
During Annual Day and Youth Parliament, students take part in mock elections that include:
Campaigning
Manifesto creation
Ballot casting
Result announcements
This year, our students also participated in an inter-school Youth Parliament, confidently enacting roles of Members of Parliament, debating bills, and following real legislative procedures. It was an enriching, real-world experience in Indian parliamentary democracy that enhanced public speaking and civic awareness.
3. Discussing Real Events
Senior students explore current events like the 2025 Delhi elections, where BJP secured a majority. They analyze:
Political strategies
Leadership qualities
Public opinion via debates and discussions
4. Co-curricular Integration
Clubs like the Debate Club and Creative Writing Society host special sessions on:
Democracy
Leadership
Civic duties
Poster-making and essay competitions are also organized around voting themes.
5. Encouraging Civic Conversations
Teachers foster open dialogues on:
Governance
Social justice
Electoral rights
These discussions promote critical thinking and awareness.
Why Civic Education Should Start Early
The values children learn early shape their adult behavior. Civic education at a young age builds lifelong habits of participation and responsibility.
Benefits of Early Civic Education:
Informed Thinking: Students learn to critically evaluate information, reducing the spread of misinformation.
Confidence & Empowerment: Awareness of rights encourages students to speak up and be change-makers.
Responsible Citizenship: Children learn to respect laws, participate actively, and value democracy.
Sacred Heart’s Alignment with Civic Values
Recognized as the Best Residential School in North-East India by ASSOCHAM in 2024 and ranked among the Top 4 Boarding Schools in West Bengal, Sacred Heart offers:
Digital classrooms
Modern science & language labs
Dedicated civic engagement spaces
Recent Election Highlights
Delhi Assembly Elections 2025: Held in February, BJP secured a major win. Used as a classroom case study.
Bihar Assembly Elections 2025: Ongoing, helping students understand state-level governance.
These real-world examples help bridge textbook knowledge with national developments, keeping students informed and engaged.
Conclusion
Sacred Heart School, Siliguri stands as a beacon of well-rounded education where academics meet social responsibility. By teaching students about democracy today, we are nurturing leaders for tomorrow.
👉 To explore more about our curriculum and student life, visit: www.sacredheartsiliguri.com